The tech industry is currently investing heavily in AI, but there are signs that growth is slowing. Meanwhile, materials science, which has contributed to tech advancements for years, is predicted to lead to the next wave of breakthroughs. Room-temperature superconductors would be particularly relevant to the tech industry, which is spending billions on new computer chips and energy costs. Despite the hype, some warn of potential damage if the claims prove false.
Key takeaways:
- A group of South Korean researchers claimed to have discovered a room-temperature superconductor, a material that can conduct electricity without losing energy, which sparked excitement in Silicon Valley.
- Many scientists believe the material, known as LK-99, might just be a type of magnet, but studies are ongoing.
- The incident revealed a strong desire in the tech industry for major, world-changing innovations, after years of perceived stagnation and focus on social media apps and business software.
- Materials science, which has been instrumental in tech advancements, is seen as a field that could lead to the next wave of breakthroughs, such as room-temperature superconductors or materials for working quantum computers.